European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: Menstruation is a normal physiological process and determines reproductive health. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to various urinary tract, vaginal infections, skin infections or even pelvic inflammatory disease.
Aims: To assess the knowledge of menstrual hygiene among women of reproductive age group i.e.; 15-49 years attending the OPD of a tertiary care hospital and to assess their attitude and practices regarding the same.
Methods: A cross sectional observation study where an interview was conducted among 100 women of reproductive age group (15-49 years) attending the OPD clinic of our hospital over a period of 6 months and data was analysed according to that.
Results: Mean age of the participants was 32.43 ± 7.74 years. Out of 100 participants, 68% had good overall knowledge regarding menstruation.62% were using commercially available disposable sanitary napkins, 28% were using washable cloth and 10% were using homemade reusable cloth napkins. 70% of the participants were practicing good menstrual hygiene practices. 45% of the participants had local complaints suggestive of reproductive/urinary tract infection associated during menstruation out of whom 35% were not following satisfactory menstrual hygiene practices.
Conclusion: Menstrual hygiene is an important aspect of reproductive women's health. Unsatisfactory menstrual hygiene management acts as a risk factor for reproductive tract infections. This calls for spreading awareness to bring about a change in attitude and practices regarding the same.